PINEHURST, N.C., Dec. 6, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Assisi Animal Health, developer of the Assisi Loop®, an effective non-pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory device (NPAID®) that can be used as pain relief for cats and dogs, discusses how to prepare your pets for the colder months.

With chilly weather around the corner, pet owners should begin taking measures to establish a warm environment for their four-legged friends this winter. Assisi Animal Health shares four ways to prepare your pets for the colder temperatures.

Invest in a jacket/sweater – Some animals have thick fur that keeps them warm naturally, but those with thin hair may require a jacket or sweater when outside. The ideal garment should reach from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect the belly.

Comfy bedding – Owners should not let their pets sleep on a cold floor in the winter. It is important to choose the right bedding, provide warm blankets, and raise beds off a cold surface to keep your pet comfortable. Also remember to place the bed away from drafts, frigid tiles, or uncarpeted floors. This is particularly important for older animals.

Avoid the use of salt and de-icers, if possible – Though effective at removing snow and decreasing the risk of slipping on ice, most salt and de-icers are harmful to pets. Often, pets will lick the chemicals from their paws after a walk, and, if ingested, could cause a serious health issue. Make sure to store de-icers and rock salt in protected locations and wipe your animal's paws, even after short walks. If your pet consumes these antifreeze chemicals, call a veterinarian immediately.

Hydration is a must – Like humans, animals can dehydrate quickly in the winter, especially if they are wearing extra layers of clothing or the heat in your home is high. Good hydration with fresh water is key to your pet's ability to regulate its own body temperature. If your pet spends time outdoors in the yard, make sure it has access to a water bowl. Check it often and break the ice that forms on top.

Pets that are left unmonitored in the winter are susceptible to serious weather-related conditions, such as frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite, in particular, begins when an animal's body gets cold. The body will automatically pull blood from the center to stay warm, which in turn may form ice crystals in the tissue and damage it.

Hypothermia, on the other hand, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an animal spends too much time in the cold. Shivering is the first indication of being too cold, with cold ears and feet following right behind. As the discomfort worsens, muscles will stiffen, and heart and breathing rates will dramatically slow down.

Be vigilant this winter and protect your pet from weather-related discomfort.

ABOUT ASSISI ANIMAL HEALTHAssisi Animal Health's clinical solutions complete the Circle of Care®—the collaboration of veterinarians and owners in animal health and healing. Our company helps veterinary professionals and owners improve the quality of life for companion animals using the Assisi Loop, the non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical healing device that is based on the same FDA-cleared technology used on humans. The device uses low-level pulses of electromagnetic energy to reduce pain and inflammation, and to enhance recovery.